Girls Rock After School Program

Girls Rock After School Program (GRASP) is a 10-week program for girls 8-18 years old. Students attend instrument lessons, form a band, collaboratively write an original song, participate in workshops, and perform with their band at a live showcase.

WHO: Girls between 8 and 18 years old (3rd-12th grade).  All musical experience levels are welcome at GRASP and we provide all of the instruments.  No prior musical experience is necessary.

WHEN:
3rd-6th graders meet every Tuesday from 3:30-6:30pm* from January 8th through March 12th. 
7th to 12th graders meet every Thursday from 3:30-6:30pm* from January 10th through March 14th.
The showcase for all participants will take place on Saturday, March 16th from 3-5pm

*Students are welcome to arrive between 3:30 and 4pm, depending on their school schedules.

WHERE: GRASP is located at the Malonga Casquelourd Center for the Arts in downtown Oakland @ 1428 Alice Street. The showcase will be at The New Parish @ 579 18th St.

HOW:  GRASP 2013 is now in session!  Come to the GRASP Showcase at the New Parish on Saturday March 16th!

If you have any questions, feel free to call our office at (510)267-1808 or email gabby@bayareagirlsrockcamp.org

For inspiration, check out the 2012 band recordings on our Music Page, and the band photos on our Photo Page. 

Activities at GRASP:

  • Instrument instruction: Students sign up to learn bass, drums, guitar, keyboards, or vocals, and attend one-hour lessons in groups of 3-5 students.  No musical experience is required and we provide instruments for everyone (but students are welcome to bring their own guitars or basses).
     
  • Band practice: Students form bands with their peers on the first day of GRASP, and work together to collaboratively write an original song. Each band works with a female mentor (their "band manager") who provides guidance, encouragement and technical support throughout the songwriting process.
     
  • Workshops: Students attend workshops in place of instrument instruction for two weeks of the session.  Workshops are geared toward self-expression and building confidence, while challenging gender stereotypes and addressing discrimination. Workshops at GRASP are catered to each age group and may include Music Herstory, Zine & Comic Making, Screenprinting, Image & Identity, Healthy Relationships, Video-making, Songwriting, How to Book a Show, Breakdancing, Self-Defense, Alternative Instruments and more.
     
  • Showcase: Each band will perform its original song at a live showcase, attended by 300-400 friends, family and adoring fans.

Interested in volunteering at GRASP? Find out more on our volunteer page.